Overview
Partial nephrectomy is a kidney-sparing surgical procedure used mainly for selected localized renal masses. The tumour is removed with a margin of surrounding tissue while preserving the remaining healthy kidney whenever technically and clinically appropriate.
Common Symptoms
Small kidney tumours may cause no symptoms. Possible symptoms include blood in urine, flank discomfort, abdominal mass, unexplained weight loss and fatigue.
Possible Causes
Risk factors for kidney cancer may include smoking, obesity, hypertension, family history, genetic conditions and other individual factors.
Diagnosis
Ultrasound, CT or MRI, blood tests and other assessments are used to evaluate a renal mass and plan treatment.
Treatment & Procedures
The tumour is identified and surgically removed while preserving the remaining healthy kidney tissue. The procedure may be performed through open or minimally invasive surgery depending on the case.
Recovery & Follow-up
Recovery depends on the surgical approach and tumour complexity. Kidney function is monitored during follow-up.
Benefits
Preserves healthy kidney tissue, provides treatment for selected localized kidney tumours and may help preserve overall kidney function.